The Tombs of the Star Corridor.
Wangchuan came alone.
He walked along the long stone stairway, his silver-white hair hanging to his waist, the hem of his black robe stirring gently in the wind.
At the end of the steps stood the ancient door. As he approached, the talismans on it ignited on their own, then went out, as though they had recognized him.
The door opened.
Tengen sat inside.
His eyes were open, black pupils set in clouded whites.
"You're here."
"Sorry for the wait."
Wangchuan walked in, found a random place to sit, and crossed his legs.
Tengen looked at him.
"Your appearance has changed quite a bit."
"Mm."
"Where did you go?"
"Somewhere far away."
Tengen did not press him.
He raised a hand and pushed something across the surface beside him with his withered fingers.
A bank card slid in front of Wangchuan.
It was a black card, with no bank logo, no name, and no decoration, only a tiny incantation engraved in one corner.
Wangchuan glanced down, picked it up, and tucked it inside his robe.
"How much?"
"I don't know."
"I asked how much."
Tengen fell silent for a beat.
"I've been removed from worldly affairs for too long. I no longer have any concept of money. Check for yourself."
Wangchuan tilted his head, then gave him a thumbs-up. He really was oblivious to the outside world.
"All right."
He thought that, given Tengen's means and position, the balance on this card probably would not be small.
At least it would be enough to spare him from working until he found his next place to stay.
"How is it progressing?"
Tengen spoke.
Wangchuan turned his head to look at him.
"In a few days."
"I'll go to the moon to set up a magic